This latest version of Lego’s popular Mindstorms robotics kit includes a new 3-in-1 color and light sensor with LEDs; a new ball shooter; and tank treads. On the software side, an image editor now lets you convert your own images to fit the LCD display, and a sound editor records and converts sound clips, to play through the speaker.

Most useful of all, a remote control menu offers direction and speed control for two motors and an action button to control one motor independently. This lets you test motors without having to program anything!

I’d like to see more programmable storage memory, but overall this is a nice refresh for Mindstorms NXT. It’s an excellent kit for budding robot enthusiasts and also a great gift for veterans.